Rita Odafe
The protest that started peacefully in Kano on August 1, denouncing hunger and bad governance, took a violent turn, leaving behind unforgettable experiences for many.
Hoodlums disrupted the peaceful protest, turning it into chaos as they clashed with security personnel outside the Kano State Government House.
Journalists who were covering the protest found themselves in the middle of the turmoil, facing threats and attacks as they tried to do their job.
Journalists’ Ordeal
Reporters from various media outlets, including Daily Trust, TVC, Channels TV, and Aminiya, narrated their ordeals during the violent turn of events.
They described how they were caught in the crossfire, with some of them being attacked, having their vehicles damaged, and facing security forces who didn’t differentiate between journalists and protesters.
Challenges Faced
Journalists were tear-gassed, attacked, and had their equipment damaged as they tried to cover the unfolding events during the protest.
Despite the dangers they faced, the journalists persevered in their reporting duties, ensuring that the public remained informed about the unfolding situation.
Condemnation and Call for Justice
The Kano State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) denounced the attacks on journalists, highlighting that they were simply carrying out their professional obligations.
The state government announced plans to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the violence, looting, and destruction of property during the protest, with a focus on ensuring justice for the victims and holding the perpetrators accountable.
Through resilience and dedication, journalists continued to fulfill their roles despite the challenges faced during the protest, reflecting the unwavering commitment to their profession.
Source: Daily Trust
